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Are multivitamins pills or candies

ARE MULTI-VITAMINS PILLS OR CANDIES?

Multivitamins are the most common type of supplements used in the world with popularity rapidly increasing in the past few decades. This is due to the fact that many people believe that multivitamins can improve health, compensate poor eating habits and even reduce the risk of diseases.

Multivitamins are supplements having different types of vitamins and minerals. There is no such standard about the quantity of nutrients and the quantity differs with each brand and product.

Following things are to be considered first while taking multivitamins i.e.

  • Dosage is an important factor while taking multivitamins. Although high doses of some vitamins and minerals are fine, high amounts of others can be seriously harmful.
  • Pregnant women need to be especially check doctor before vitamin A intake, as excess amount is linked to birth defects.
  • Check for the quantity of nutrients present in multivitamins. If you eat a lot of nutrient-dense foods along with multi-nutrients, you can easily exceed the recommended daily intake of many nutrients.
  • Smokers should avoid multivitamins with considerable quantity of beta carotene, as these nutrients may increase your risk of lung cancer.
  • Minerals may also be harmful in high doses. For example, too much iron can be dangerous for people who don’t need it.

MULTIVITAMINS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR:

  • Older adults: They  may also need more calcium and vitamin D, vitamin B12.
  • Vegans and vegetarians: As vitamin B12 is only found in animal foods, you are at a higher risk if you follow a plant-based diet. You may also be lacking in calcium, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider, as some nutrients are good and others harmful. For example, excess vitamin A can cause birth defects.